Reigi

Sensei recently reminded us of the importance of Reigi in the practice of Aikido. I am a beginner in Aikido and what is said here must be considered in that light. The literal definition of Reigi indicates manners, courtesy, etiquette. Sensei has told us that Morihiro Saito Sensei, on the subject of Reigi, said that one should be observant of what is correct behavior in a particular setting and that this awareness prevents unnecessary conflict from starting. Someone not familiar with Aikido might then say that the idea of Reigi seems to be a kind of “keep your head down” approach that avoids conflict. That is not what Reigi is about. Instead, correct behavior in a particular setting is a sign of good training leading to the strength and confidence to be humble and appreciative of others. This is not always easy for us because our popular culture emphasizes the elevation of ego over all else. To practice Reigi is to show respect for others and respect for ourselves. It is part of our experience as Aikido students to absorb the etiquette of the dojo. This is a fundamental aspect of the sempai-kohai relationship; it is part of the practice of Aikido.

This does not require, necessarily, learning a set of esoteric rules. It can be the simple exercise of good manners. As Sensei has pointed out, when you have good manners, people don’t mind being around you. Maybe a way we can apply this is to give more attention to Sensei and training partners than to our own needs, ideas and opinions. This means that we listen when we are receiving instruction, express gratitude for what has been shared with us and do our best to apply what we have learned. As a trial lawyer, I am familiar with the idea of etiquette appropriate to the situation. The application of Reigi in my practice has helped me to be a better lawyer. Despite unfavorable stereotypes, good trial lawyers understand the importance of showing sincere respect for the judge, fellow attorneys, parties and all who are involved in the court system. When that respect is absent, or breaks down, disharmony arises, and to use Saito Sensei’s phrase, unnecessary conflict occurs. It is this fundamental disharmony which causes some people to feel, regardless of the outcome of a case, that the system has been emotionally destructive. Properly understood, etiquette provides the structure within which we all interact with each other. The bad conduct of some lawyers are a symptom of the general loss of civility in our society. There is an opportunity to change that with each interaction we have both inside the Aikido dojo and outside in our daily lives. As said by Mahatma Gandhi: “We need to be the change we wish to see in the world.”
Submitted by Ed Lemons // 13 March 2010